Where Are the Charlie Bit My Finger Kids Now?
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In May 2007, a heartwarming video of one-year-old Charlie biting his three-year-old brother Harry’s finger was uploaded to YouTube by their father, Howard Davies-Carr. Little did they know that this innocent sibling moment would turn them into viral sensations. The video gained popularity online, becoming one of the first viral videos on the internet and earning the title “Charlie Bit My Finger.”
Fast forward 16 years, and the video has become an iconic part of internet culture, even though the original clip was taken down in 2021 after being sold as a Non-Fungible Token (NFT). However, the impact of the video lives on, with millions of views and a lasting place in meme culture.
Despite their early fame as children, Harry and Charlie have chosen a more private path as they transitioned into adulthood. The proceeds from the video’s sale were used to further their education, showing a wise and practical approach to their unexpected online stardom.
The original “Charlie Bit My Finger” video was uploaded by Howard as a private video to share with family in the U.S. In an interview, he mentioned that the decision to make it public was spurred by increased interest from relatives who wanted to see the charming interaction between the two brothers.
Following the video’s viral success, Howard had a moment of realization that their private family moment had taken on a life of its own on the internet. Rather than removing the video, he embraced the newfound fame and even began sharing more snippets of their daily lives on YouTube, building a following around their family’s adventures.
The viral success of “Charlie Bit My Finger” led to unexpected opportunities, such as a parody on Jimmy Kimmel Live! featuring the Hemsworth brothers. As the video hit 50 million views, the family monetized it through YouTube’s ad revenue-sharing program, earning a significant amount that contributed to their children’s education and daily life.
In 2021, the original video was sold as an NFT for over $700,000, marking a new chapter in the video’s legacy. However, the brothers, now adults, reflected on their unique journey, expressing gratitude for the experiences and opportunities that stemmed from the viral fame. They have remained grounded, with a focus on personal growth beyond their internet personas.
Despite their early taste of fame, both Charlie and Harry have prioritized privacy and normalcy in their lives. While the video remains etched in internet history, they have steered clear of letting fame define them, with a deliberate effort to ensure a well-rounded identity beyond their viral moment.
As the world continues to reminisce about the iconic “Charlie Bit My Finger” video, the story of Charlie and Harry serves as a testament to navigating unexpected fame with grace and staying true to oneself amidst the whirlwind of internet virality. Their journey from childhood internet sensations to young adults with a focus on education and privacy showcases a thoughtful approach to handling unexpected fame in the digital age.